Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services

The NMCADV Accessibility Project Interpreter/Translator reimbursement program has limited funding for live interpreters and document translation through June 2018. We no longer have funds to reimburse for telephonic interpretation (language line) services. Please see the Reimbursement Request page for more information on reimbursement of services.

Community Outreach Program for the Deaf (COPD) schedules live sign language interpreters throughout the state. To request live sign language interpreters, you may contact COPD by submitting a request Online, email interpreterscheduling@copdnm.org or calling 505-255-7636 or toll-free 1-800-229-4262. For after-hours emergency service answering call 505-857-3652 (in Albuquerque) or 888-549-7684 (outside of Albuquerque).

Video Remote Interpreting (VRI) is an alternative to having an interpreter physically present. Through the use of video conferencing equipment or a computer/tablet equipped with a camera and speakers, VRI allows for immediate online interpretation services to deaf or hard of hearing clients when a physical interpreter is unavailable.

If you need more information on VRI technology and providers, we recommend you contact the NMCDHH for more information about resources: www.cdhh.state.nm.us

ADA Kits: We can purchase an ADA kit for the use of deaf and hard of hearing clients in your shelter. This kit contains several hearing and alert devices that can make DHH clients feel safer in shelter. For more information or to order a kit please email access@nmcadv.org

ADA Compliance and Training: In partnership with the New Mexico Commission on the Deaf and Hard of Hearing, we will work with you to ensure compliance with ADA guidelines and making your services accessible to victim/survivors who are deaf or hard of hearing, including telephonic equipment, door beacons, visual smoke detectors, etc. In addition, we look forward to providing training to ensure that your staff are comfortable and prepared to respond to the needs of DHH victim/survivors.

For technical assistance and training regarding Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services or other ADA compliance, or any questions please email access@nmcadv.org.

Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf (RID)RID is the national professional organization and certifying body for signed language interpreters. A searchable database of interpreters available for freelance work is included on their website under “Search Tools” and “Members” in the left navigation column. www.RID.org

Note on State Licensure for Interpretation:

New Mexico requires all signed language interpreters to be licensed in order to protect deaf and hard of hearing consumers. Practicing without a license is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 364 days in jail and/or up to a $1000 fine. Interpreting is defined as any form of facilitating communication in a visual form, regardless of the individual’s job title or position description. The statute, rules, forms and a searchable database of licensed interpreters can be found at the website of the Signed Language Interpreting Practice Board: www.rld.state.nm.us/boards/Signed_Language_Interpreting_Practices.aspx.